Chicago's winter snow parking restrictions take effect Dec. 1

CHICAGO - Chicago's winter snow parking restrictions will once again take effect this week.

The city’s annual overnight winter parking ban begins Wednesday on more than 100 miles of city streets — threatening drivers with towing and a minimum fine of $235.

The parking ban is enforced regardless of snow from 3 a.m. to 7 a.m., and lasts from Dec. 1 to April 1, according to the Department of Streets and Sanitation.

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People who ignore the posted tow zone face a minimum $150 towing fee in addition to a $60 ticket and an initial $25 daily storage fee. Towed vehicles are taken to pounds at 10301 S. Doty Avenue or 701 N. Sacramento Boulevard.

A separate, snow-related parking ban exists on 500 miles of other roads when there’s 2 inches of snow — regardless of the season.

PDF: City of Chicago Overnight Parking Restrictions Map

The bans were implemented after traffic came to a standstill during major snowstorms in 1967 and 1979. The city says the parking ban on "critical roadways" ensures that plows and salt trucks can quickly respond to winter storms.

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The city said drivers can avoid violations by checking street signage. A complete map of impacted streets can be found on the city’s website.